What we should expect to see from Washington in week 1

The Dark Horse Season Begins

The Washington Huskieswill begin their 2012 college football season on Saturday when the kickoff against a San Diego State team that is led by ex-Oregon State quarterback Ryan Katz.

2012 is one of the most anticipated seasons in school history as head coach Steve Sarkisian now had enough time to bring in all the players that he needs to make his offense and defense as successful as possible.

Led by Heisman contender Keith Price, the Huskies are priming themselves for an under-the-radar season that should see them contend for a Pac-12 North title.

Here is what to expect from the Washington Huskies when they take on the San Diego State Aztecs on Septembers 1st.

1. Keith Price has his day

This will be Keith Price’s year to shine.

They say every dog has his day.

Keith Price should have more than a few of those this season, and one of them will come against the Aztecs on Saturday. Nothing against the Aztecs, but they don’t have the talent to contend with the versatility Price will present for most of the game.

Though it could be anticipated that Price would leave the game should it be a blowout, expect him to still put up some stellar statistics as he begins his 2012 Heisman campaign.

2. Running Back by Committee

The departure of Chris Polk to the NFL was pretty big for a Husky team that has not really been able to find a true starting running back since his departure.

Due to the circumstances surrounding the position, there should be more than a few players receiving time at running back so the coaches can begin to iron out the difference between those players who are game ready and those players who may need a little more development.

Expecting to see plenty of action are Jessie Callier, Bishop Sankey, and Jonathan Amosa. Although freshman Erich Wilson will round out to be a good player, I don’t see him being given many carries early on in the season.

3. Kasen Williams becomes a Household Name

Sure, Seattle natives and Husky fans may already know the name Kasen Williams, but people around the nation will really start paying attention to him after a performance in which he will show how dominating he can be.

In 2011, the young receiver averaged 3 catches per game and 11.9 yards per catch. Though those are surely admirable numbers, they should continue to improve as he is thrown to more often due to his development over the past offseason.

4. A Blowout

Once again, nothing against San Diego State, but they just aren’t in the same class as the Huskies.

It is a very encouraging trend that I am saying this, because not even a few years ago this game would be much closer than it needed to be. Sarkisian has done wonders with this Husky football team and will have his best season yet in 2012.

5. Centurlink Field Becomes a Nice Home Away from Home

With ongoing renovation at Husky Stadium, the Huskies will be moving to Centurylink Stadium, the home of the Seattle Seahawks, for the 2012 season.

Not a long drive from Husky Stadium, Centurylink should provide the same home field benefits that the Huskies are able to enjoy when Husky Stadium is cranking at its loudest.

Centurylink (formerly known as Qwest Field) is one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL and will enter the college ranks this season as one of the best as well.